Hat trick for College at National Floristry Awards

Everything is coming up roses for the Bicton College floristry department, after scooping national awards for top student, tutor and training provider.

The prestigious British Florist Association (BFA) Awards 2020 took place virtually and saw hundreds of viewers glued to their screen as it was announced that Bicton College had won three categories.

With a staggering 13,000 votes cast amongst the 10 categories, the first to be announced was the Institute of Professional Florists (IOPF) Floristry Student of the Year, which was awarded to Helen Collier.

Helen, who completed her Level 2 Floristy course at Bicton College in the summer, now runs her own business, Kingshill Florist in Bude.

“This has really launched my career in floristry earlier than expected,” Helen explained.

“The BFA are held in high regard and I am so proud to have won this accolade. Studying at Bicton College allowed me to be personally creative in my designs and study in the most beautiful environments.”

Denise Cross, Floristry Study Programme Manager at Bicton College, won Floristry Tutor of the Year, and is no stranger to winning awards for her impressive skills. Last year Denise achieved runner-up in the same category and is “incredibly proud” to land the top spot.

With 22 nominations for Floristry Training Provider of the Year, Bicton College fought off impressive talent from across the UK to win the much sought after accolade.

Bicton College, which is part of The Cornwall College Group (TCCG), is fast establishing itself the training provider of choice within the floristry sector, with a wealth of awards as proof.

“To be recognised nationally by the British Florist Association is an incredible achievement for both Bicton College and our floristry team,” said Sarah Houghton, Vice Principal Quality of education for land-based colleges at The Cornwall College Group.

“We are so proud of everyone involved and congratulations to Helen, Denise and the whole team here. We really are showcasing our skills to the whole of the UK now with these awards!”

The UK market share for florists, excluding online retailers and supermarkets, is worth £1 billion and floristry alumni have gone on to create successful and well respected floral businesses throughout the country.

The BFA is recognised as the voice of the industry, representing 7,500 florists.

The Cornwall College Group boasts a new, highly experienced leadership team that is committed to delivering exceptional opportunities, facilities and training to all of its learners.

For more information about Bicton College’s floristry courses visit www.bicton.ac.uk, call 0330 123 4782 or email customer.services@bicton.ac.uk